“She is courageous, resilient, and shattered all at once.” – Anna Funder, Author
The Start of a New Chapter
Sarah Johnson, 35, and her partner, Mike, embarked on their fertility journey at the Indiana Fertility Institute (IFI) in 2018 after struggling to conceive for a year and a half. After undergoing some tests, Sarah was diagnosed with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) by Dr. Emily Wright. Initially, they tried four rounds of intrauterine insemination (IUI), but only two were completed, both ending in disappointment. “After the IUI treatments didn’t work, I felt utterly defeated,” Sarah reflected. “But we were determined to start a family and willing to do whatever it took to make it happen.” This marked the beginning of crucial discussions about in vitro fertilization (IVF) among Sarah, Mike, and their dedicated team at IFI.
Facing Challenges with IVF
Sarah’s first IVF cycle in the fall of 2018 ended sadly in a chemical pregnancy. Following that, a second attempt in April 2019 also proved unsuccessful. “I remember feeling like I lost everything,” Sarah recounted. “The second time, the embryo didn’t develop properly. I was crushed.” In light of these setbacks, Dr. Wright recommended a hysteroscopy and laparoscopy, which revealed endometriosis, polyps, and cysts that complicated Sarah’s journey.
Moments of Joy and Triumphs
Despite these obstacles, Sarah and Mike held onto hope. In December 2019, they transferred their last embryo from the second IVF cycle. This time brought an overwhelming wave of joy—Sarah was pregnant! Their daughter, Bella Grace, now 4 years old, was born, filling their lives with happiness. “I remember rushing into our bedroom to tell Mike, who was napping. I couldn’t keep it in and shared the news with my coworkers too!”
The desire to give Bella a sibling led them back to IFI in 2022. After another surgery to remove adhesions, Sarah began her third round of IVF. In November, they celebrated the successful transfer of their fourth embryo, welcoming their son, Leo James, who is now 1 year old!
Sarah praised her experience at IFI, stating, “Dr. Wright and her team were with us every step of the way. They remembered us at each appointment, which made us feel so valued. We thank God and IFI for our beautiful children every day.”
Lessons Learned and Encouragement
Reflecting on her journey, Sarah noted the hardest parts were the uncertainty and the long two-week waits for pregnancy test results. Yet, her faith, determination, and the unwavering support of Mike and the IFI team kept her going. The greatest reward? The births of her precious Bella and Leo: “They remind me daily of how fortunate we are.”
Sarah emphasized the importance of persistence and building a supportive network of medical professionals, friends, and family. “Don’t give up,” she advised. “You may go through multiple rounds of IUI or IVF, but keep pushing. Sometimes things don’t work for a reason. I’m grateful that Dr. Wright never lost faith in us. Find that support system that will stand by you throughout your journey.”
Conclusion
Sarah’s journey, much like many others, is a powerful testament to resilience and the strength of hope. We are grateful for her openness in sharing her story, which serves as a beacon of encouragement for those navigating the complexities of fertility treatments. If you’re beginning your own fertility journey or considering assisted reproductive technologies, take inspiration from Sarah’s experience. Remember, at the Indiana Fertility Institute, we’re here to support you every step of the way.
If you are interested in home insemination methods, check out this excellent resource and our blog post on getting pregnant after just two attempts with the Make-A-Mom Kit. For more information on at-home insemination options, visit Make-A-Mom’s BabyMaker Kit.
Summary
Sarah Johnson’s fertility journey is filled with challenges and triumphs, showcasing her resilience in the face of adversity. With the support of her partner and the dedicated team at IFI, she successfully welcomed two beautiful children into her family. Her story serves as a reminder to never lose hope and to seek out a support system during difficult times.